Madagascar's Gen Z Activists Face Repression Under Military Regime

The recent arrest of several Gen Z activists in Madagascar has heightened fears among young citizens regarding the military regime that assumed power following a coup in October 2025. On April 12, four activists—Herizo Andriamanantena, Miora Rakotomalala, Dina Randrianarisoa, and Nomena Ratsihorimanana—were detained during a protest demanding a date for upcoming elections. They face charges related to undermining state security and criminal conspiracy, which their lawyer, Aliarivelo Maromanana, claims lack evidence. Following their arrest, two activists were hospitalized, while Andriamanantena remains in detention. The military regime, led by Colonel Michael Randrianirina, has faced criticism for its handling of dissent, with many young people expressing disillusionment over the lack of reforms and the regime's ties to Russia.

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Madagascar, an island nation with a population of 32 million, has a history marked by coups and corruption. The country was ranked as the fifth poorest globally in 2024, with a GDP per capita of $545. Following the coup, protests erupted over persistent issues such as water and electricity outages, which have not improved under the new regime. Elliot Randriamandrato, a leader of Gen Z Madagasikara, highlighted the absence of meaningful reforms, stating, “For the moment, there’s no real reforms that have been implemented by the government.” Activists are particularly concerned about the lack of clarity regarding constitutional consultations and electoral reforms.

The Guardian

Amnesty International has condemned the military regime's repression of Gen Z activists, asserting that the vague charges used against them are aimed at silencing dissent. Tigere Chagutah, the organization's Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, emphasized that these actions violate fundamental rights to freedom of expression and assembly. He called for an end to arbitrary arrests and urged the authorities to respect the right to protest, particularly for demonstrations planned for April 18.

Amnesty International

The military regime has received military support from Russia, including trucks, helicopters, and tanks, following Randrianirina's visit to Moscow in February. This has raised concerns among activists about potential foreign influence in Madagascar's governance. Shely Andriamihaja, a member of Gen Z Madagasikara, expressed apprehension regarding the risk of state capture by foreign powers, although she clarified that this does not imply support for Madagascar's former colonial ruler, France.

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In response to the arrests, Harry Laurent Rahajason, spokesperson for the regime, stated that the presidency does not interfere in police matters. Meanwhile, the regime has cited ongoing investigations into corruption as a justification for its actions. However, critics argue that these investigations are being used to suppress dissent rather than promote accountability.

The Guardian

While the military regime claims that the detained activists were not harmed, reports from their lawyer and Amnesty International suggest otherwise. Additionally, there is uncertainty regarding the timeline for constitutional reforms and the government's commitment to addressing the grievances that sparked the initial protests.

Amnesty International

• “They’ve all denied it and there’s no evidence whatsoever,” — Aliarivelo Maromanana, Lawyer

The Guardian

• “Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa “These authoritarian practices constitute clear violations of the rights to freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly.” — Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International

Amnesty International

• “He said: “For the moment, there’s no real reforms that have been implemented by the government.” — Elliot Randriamandrato, Gen Z Madagasikara Leader

The Guardian

The situation in Madagascar remains tense as young activists continue to demand accountability and reform from a regime that many fear is perpetuating the same issues they sought to change.

The Guardian